- Ogun monarch, Oba Semiu Ogunjobi, accused of dehumanizing Chief Arinola in viral video.
- State government condemns the act, vows to investigate and take action.
- Incident reportedly linked to kingship supremacy dispute in Orile Ifo
The Ogun State government has pledged to investigate a viral video allegedly showing the Oloorile of Orile Ifo, Oba Semiu Ogunjobi, subjecting one Chief Arinola Abraham Love to dehumanizing treatment.
The two-minute video, which has sparked outrage online, captures Chief Arinola kneeling on a road while an unseen man, alleged to be Oba Ogunjobi, rains curses on him. The traditional ruler is heard accusing Arinola of conspiracy and calling for misfortune to befall him and his family.
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EKO HOT BLOG reports that Oba Ogunjobi, a retired police officer, reportedly boasted of his influence over the Nigeria Police, declaring he could imprison Chief Arinola without consequences. He further stated that even if Arinola were to die, he would ensure his burial without repercussions.
At one point, a man accompanying the traditional ruler slapped Chief Arinola and ordered him to prostrate before the monarch.
In the video, Oba Ogunjobi, speaking in Yoruba, is heard saying, “You are a conspirator, it will never be well with you… your wife and children… whoever thinks he is courageous enough should come out to face me… even if you die, we shall bury you and nothing will happen.”
Reacting to the footage, the Special Adviser to Governor Dapo Abiodun on Communication and Strategy, Kayode Akinmade, condemned the act, describing it as unacceptable and inhumane.
“The action is very inappropriate and inhumane. This will be investigated, and if proven to be true, necessary action will be taken,” Akinmade stated.
Similarly, the Special Assistant to the Governor on New Media, Emmanuel Ojo, also decried the monarch’s actions in a post on his verified Facebook page, stating that the issue could have been handled in a more dignified and civil manner.
“I came across a disturbing video online showing Chief Arinola Abraham Love (JP) being subjected to public humiliation and physical assault. In the video, he was seen kneeling on the road while being slapped and verbally abused by someone identified as Oba Semiu Olawale Ogunjobi, the Oloorile of Orile Ifo,” Ojo wrote.
He further noted that the incident stemmed from a kingship supremacy dispute, where the monarch allegedly took offense at Chief Arinola’s perceived support for another traditional ruler, a coronet Oba named Wasiu.
“This act is highly condemnable and completely unjustifiable, regardless of the underlying issues. There are more dignified and lawful ways to address disputes, especially among traditional leaders. Resorting to force, assault, and public humiliation is unacceptable and must be strongly denounced,” Ojo added.
The Ogun State government has assured the public that a thorough investigation will be conducted, with appropriate measures taken against any wrongdoing.
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